Wasn’t it 1930 when a group of devoted people founded this church? Here before us stands Zion Hill Baptist Church a testament to their unwavering faith. They sought to unite the Fifth Ward community in Houston Texas. Reverend Jerome Harris led them. Only one deacon Deacon A Smith served alongside him. Their first building stood humbly on Buck and Cage Streets. They chose the name Macedonia. But as their congregation grew they needed more space. They expanded their humble beginnings.
Then Reverend W T Perry took the reins in 1932. The church purchased new land on Buck and Cage. They built a small edifice a true testament to their devotion. The name changed from Macedonia to Zion Hill Baptist Church. Reverend B J Perry’s passing in 1949 left a void. Reverend Curverson Lee Punch arrived in 1950. He provided strength and courage during a difficult time.
In 1955 the city of Houston expanded. The original church land was taken by the Highway Department. The congregation relocated to Kashmere Gardens to its present location on Crane and Leffingwell. Their faith blossomed. Two years later they paid off the mortgage on their new building. Expansion continued in 1959 creating a more Christ-like atmosphere. Further renovations and additions followed. These included a renovated sanctuary in 1980. Upstairs offices classrooms and improved restrooms were added in 1987. A fellowship hall renovation in 1996 included a library classrooms and a nursery. Through decades of dedication Zion Hill Baptist Church has flourished. It has served as a beacon of hope in the community.
Reverend Lewis Terry Jr served as pastor after Reverend Punch’s illness in 1993. Reverend Punch became Pastor Emeritus and passed away in 1995. Reverend Terry resigned in 1996. Reverend Stan K Lewis Sr then led the church until 1999. A memorial plaque for Reverend Punch was dedicated that year. Reverend Mark Anthony Edwards became pastor in 2000. He served for 17 years. The church faced a transitional period after his departure in 2017. A restoration grant from Samaritan’s Purse in 2018 helped revitalize the building. The roof foundation flooring and HVAC systems were overhauled. The fellowship hall was also refurbished. The project finished in January 2020. Zion Hill Baptist Church continues its mission offering salvation and restoration. This building this history this faith stands as a testament to endurance.